Measuring Wheel Alignment

Measuring Wheel Alignment
Steering and vibration complaints are not always the result of improper alignment. One possible cause is wheel and tire imbalance. Another possibility is tire lead due to worn or improperly manufactured tires. Lead is the vehicle deviation from a straight path on a level road without pressure on the steering wheel.
Before making any adjustment affecting wheel alignment, perform the following inspections and adjustments in order to ensure correct alignment readings:
- Inspect the tires for the following conditions. Refer to the tire placard on the drivers door lock pillar.
- Pressure
- Size
- Brand
- Construction
- Balance
- Inspect the tires for wear.
- Inspect the runout of the tires and the wheels.
- Inspect the wheel bearings for runout.
- Inspect the wheel bearings for looseness.
- Inspect the following components for looseness or wear:
- The front knuckles
- The control arm ball studs
- The control arm bushings
- The outer tie rods
- The inner tie rods
- The steering gear
- The stabilizer shaft
- The strut assemblies
- The upper strut mounts
- Inspect the struts for leaks.
- Inspect the vehicle trim height.
- Inspect the remaining suspension and steering components for damage. Replace all damaged parts prior to adjusting wheel alignment.
- Inspect the fuel level. The fuel tank should be full or the vehicle should have compensating ballast.

Give consideration to excess loads, such as tool boxes, sample cases, etc. If normally carried in the vehicle, these items should remain in the vehicle during alignment adjustments. Give consideration also to the condition of the equipment being used for the alignment. Follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
Satisfactory vehicle operation may occur over a wide range of alignment settings. However, if the setting exceeds the service allowable specifications, correct the alignment to the service preferred specifications.

Perform the following steps in order to measure the front alignment angles:
1. Install the alignment equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Perform the following procedure to normalize the suspension prior to measuring the angles:
2.1. Bounce the front bumper lightly three times.
2.2. Bounce the rear bumper lightly three times.
3. Measure the alignment angles.
4. Record the readings.
5. Adjust the front toe, if necessary.